John Lewis seeks to widen product range at struggling Ipswich store
John Lewis and Partners has applied to Ipswich Borough Council to sell clothing, footwear and accessories at its Futura Retail Park store, after admitting it is one of the retailer's worst-performing outlets.
Why it matters: The John Lewis at Home store, in Futura Retail Park, Ipswich, is currently restricted in what it can sell under a planning condition dating back to 2011. The retailer says widening that condition is a "vital step" in securing the store's future and safeguarding around 90 jobs.
The details: When the store was approved in December 2011, alongside the neighbouring Waitrose unit, a condition limited the types of goods that could be sold there. John Lewis is now seeking to change that condition to widen its offer, as well as increase the amount of floorspace dedicated to health and beauty products by 92 square metres.
No physical changes to the building or car park are being proposed.
What they're saying: A planning statement submitted (26/00624/VC) on the retailer's behalf said the approach had been "integral" to addressing viability challenges at similarly located John Lewis at Home stores.
The statement said click and collect data showed high demand for its wider offer in the Ipswich area, notably around beauty and fashion.
For context: As part of the application, the retailer looked at alternative sites in Ipswich, as well as Woodbridge and Felixstowe, but concluded there were no available or suitable units to move into.
It also assessed the impact on other shops in the town but concluded there would be limited trade diversion, as the change would serve customers already shopping online or collecting orders from the store.
What's next: Ipswich Borough Council is considering the plans. Representations from residents are welcome until 22 September, with a decision expected by 16 October.
The bottom line: John Lewis says expanding what it can sell at its Futura Retail Park store is essential to keeping it viable, with the council now weighing the application against residents' views ahead of an October decision.
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